This fish particularly has a lot of calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium. When is the best month to go goliath grouper fishing in Crystal River? Crystal River, Florida Fishing Report October 2021 - High Octane Fishing Love th, Another tough winter day here in Florida. When to Catch Grouper in Crystal River One of the Florida Gulf Coast's greatest fishing experiences is found in Crystal River. What Fish Are Biting in Crystal River, FL, While fishing the Inshore waters of Crystal River the options are endless. Generally, 65-80 pound braided main line and 80-100 pound leader gets the job done. Over time the constant bombardment of dropping these heavy dummy bombs created large areas of scattered craters that have become perfect hiding areas for hungry Grouper. Battle some of the hardest fighting fish in Florida all while experiencing the beauty of the Nature Coast on your guided fishing trip. Trolling Rapala Xraps or other hard baits across the top of the structure can produce very well by keying in on the Groupers aggression and triggering a reaction strike. Once you find the school, live pinfish has been a great bait to keep these fish fired up. Visit Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park: If you love nature, you wont want to miss out on this state wildlife park. It sits on the Crystal River where you can swim with manatees. Crystal River, Florida, is a prime fishing destination with various species to catch and beautiful scenery to enjoy. These young wranglers kept the rod, bent all day. Inshore Half Day(4 Hours) 1-2 People, 20212023 Crystal River Sport Fishing. Because its all about gag grouper fishing this time of year. Email Us! Fishing the many rock piles that line the foul area with large Rapala f18 Swimming Plugs has also shown to be a great way to get these hard fighting fish to bite in tough conditions. Crystal River is a pristine coastal fishery that is known for epic battles with snook and tarpon, houses many of the most sought-after inshore species anywhere, but it also holds one of the most unique experiences found along Florida's coast - Shallow water grouper fishing! Copyright Reel Florida Fishing Charters 2019-2021, Crystal River Little League Opening Day!!! 8000 sized spinning reels spooled with 65-80 pound braid and 80 pound leader is what you need to get these fish in the boat. These grouper, Another awesome day chasing tailing Redfish along, Good times today with the family here in Crystal R, Talk about a fun day!!!! Its a lot of fun to get a experience fishing for gag grouper, all while finding the secret places where they like to hide. The health benefits of this fish include low-fat content, omega-3 fatty acids, high protein, and a lot of vitamins. When to Catch Grouper in Crystal River Including Homosassa, Ozello, Crystal River, Yankeetown, Waccasassa, and Cedar Key. . We use 65lb braid and 100lb Fluorocarbon Leader to pull these fish from their homes. My boy Andy's l, Great day on the pond targeting Reds on fly. Love th, Another tough winter day here in Florida. Fishing Reports | Crystal River Fishing Charters open menu Crystal River Sport Fishing Sport Fishing Slip 12645 W Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 Map/Directions (813) 486-4642 captjaycemassaro@gmail.com Hours Always Open Reviews Book Fishing Charter Follow us on. In fact, it has a slightly sweet taste and it has a texture that is easy to work with, even if you overcook it. Casey. Redfish and Snook in the backcountry + Grouper are lurking. Usually, between 8 and 30 feet of water, these structures provide habitat for baitfish, other species (snapper and grunts for example), and provide ample ambush points for gags to hide in. October Fishing Report: Gag Grouper Fishing in Crystal River, FL These locations are expansive flats with a unique ecology that draws in this awesome species of grouper. Though there are multiple species of grouper fish, they all have large, thick bodies and wide mouths. If you choose to go fishing for grouper in Crystal River on a charter boat, your captain can help you hook the grouper of a lifetime! Its a very accessible place with plenty of different fish species, and its always an exciting time. Are you visiting Crystal River in the month of June? Reports | Crystal River Fly Fishing The trout fishing has slowed down with warmer temperatures we have been fishing from 12-16 feet slow jigging mirrolure little johns in . Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Floridas Big Bend. When youre looking for the best-hidden spots for fishing in Crystal River, we also have you covered! The best equipment for fishing for grouper is a heavy-duty rod and reel. You can feel the shear stopping power of these fish when they hit the lure. Its that time of year again where anglers from all over the world descend onto the flats of Crystal River and Homosassa looking to accomplish one goal/life long quest: CATCH A BIG ASS TARPON ON FLY! October is prime time for inshore and nearshore fishing in the Crystal River area of Florida. Big spinning reels or conventional reels spooled up with a 60-80lbs braid paired with a 60-80lbs leader will give you the upper hand in putting these fish in the boat. These lures track true straight out of the package and have good enough hooks to handle a quality grouper. Bring a hat and sunblock and a good attitude, there's gold here!!! These fish are extreme tackle testers so you better be ready for the battle with some high quality gear and some beefed up tackle. I want to be just like capt Casey when I grow up., Casey Russell is a highly experienced guide. Crystal River Fishing Reports: May Recap and What to Expect There are several ways to catch a grouper fish from shore. Florida Fishing in in October. The time we have all been looking forward to, cooler weather, has arrived here in Crystal River! We are the experienced fishing character that can help you catch grouper, along with many other types of fish. Looking to go fishing in Crystal River in January? 8/0 to 10/0 circle hooks typically work great. One thing that makes our area special is the abilty to cast and troll for these fish. We look forward to. Are you ready to hook some gag grouper? Crystal River Sport Fishing - Fishing Charters in Crystal River, FL Learn where, when, and how to catch fishing in Crystal River, Florida with High Octane Fishing Charters. More Info on Crystal River Grouper Fishing Charters, 2023 crystalriverguideservice.com All Rights Reserved | Page One Fishing. Cool mornings with warm afternoons making for a great fishing environment is what we live for. Had an amazing family on the boat today. Crystal River, FL 34429, 2023 Crystal River Fishing Charters. Dress warm in the morning and a bring a light rain jacket--you will get wet from sea spray. All grouper fish have large, thick bodies and wide mouths, despite the fact that there are many species. Fishing Reports - Homosassa Fishing Charters | Crystal River Fishing Learn all about the benefits of charter fishing here this time of year. Grouper are notorious for breaking anglers off in nearby structures; therefore, we have to use some seriously stout tackle. Regardless of the method you choose, you can do a few things to improve your chances of catching a grouper fish. My boy Andy's l, Great day on the pond targeting Reds on fly. Mostly considered an offshore species, juvenile gags mature in bays and deeper grass flats close to . Learn all about the different snapper varieties here. You've probably seen it on TV or you've seen it on YouTube: shallow water grouper fishing puts Crystal River on the map. . Whether you're an inshore or offshore angler, there are incredible opportunities to catch some serious "dinners." The highlight, though, without a doubt, is chasing down shallow water grouper. Sardines and threadfin herring are a good option if live bait isn't available. Tight Lines!!! We get this question a lot. The best Grouper fishing found along Crystal River and Homosassa can be found along the shallow waters of our Foul Area also known as the Old Bombing Range. Fresh Fishing Reports from Crystal River. If you want to catch a lot of grouper fish, you need to use the best bait for grouper. Skip to main content. Thats the word that comes to mind as I try my best to describe the latest fishing action here along the Nature Coast. Grouper has a subtle taste and it is not overly fishy. In addition to being convenient, going on a fishing charter is also cost-effective. Very knowedgable, very friendly and great fisherman. Keep up the sunscreen and watch the weather because it can change in an hour. captnickwarrington@gmail.com. Daily Crystal River Fishing Reports (March 2023) - FishingBooker | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. Web Design by SteamWorks | Page One Fishing. Pete's charges $5.00 to park on their lot, but that is covered if you book through FishingBooker. 352-601-1963 How shallow one may ask? S from Cincinatii, OH Had a great time on the water and caught fish for dinner. Catching a grouper isnt the hard part. Looking for an Orvi, Shout out to my boy Casey Males for knocking out s, Another great day of fly fishing with my main man, This gorgeous view will becoming up For Sale very, Great Day fly fishing the Backcountry of Crystal R, One of my top 10 guiding moments!! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Rock piles, ledges, or any underwater structure is a great place for a grouper to be hiding waiting for his next meal. With the Thanksgiving holiday on our doorstep and Christmas right around the corner many families are planning their annual family fishing trips to the Nature Coast and wondering what the action has been like. They were a good size and plentiful enough to keep us busy. I honestly cant say that I blame those fun loving beachgoers for wanting to soak up some sun during the spring break season here in Florida. For most people, moderate intake of mercury in fish is not a concern, but you do want to be aware of what youre putting in your body, especially if you eat grouper frequently. What is the key to snapper fishing in Crystal River, FL? However, they can also be found in temperate environments. Crystal River Grouper Fishing If you ever wondered about one of the best grouper fishing opportunities in the state of Florida, wonder no more. Inshore, grouper, tarpon, scalloping, and fly fishing news. Although they are small, pinfishes can be quite tasty. As the water temperature starts to drop into the low 70s, the Grouper start to swim (migrate) their way east. Be sure to check out our new website and give us any feedback you might have. Water is nice and warm in the summer. Richard P. from PA. Our group had a blast with Capt. There are many colors and patterns of grouper fish, but they are all characterized by large scales. Let's start by saying grouper can be caught 365 days a year out of Crystal River, but the absolute best bite occurs during the fall as these large grouper push in closer to shore as our waters cool. An egg sinker, swivel, circle hook, and your favorite leader is all you need to make the most effect rig for catching Grouper, the fish finder rig. Check out the May fishing report for Crystal River Fishing, offering insight on what's biting now! If youre going on a party boat or a head boat, then you can expect to have a good time with your friends or family. Redfish, Snook, Speckled Trout, and Gag Grouper are all biting well this time of year, and the weather is usually cooperative, with sunny days and mild temperatures. Are you new to fishing for gag grouper? Curious about fishing for grouper in Crystal River? Exploring the Benefits of Crystal River Fishing Charters: The Top Reasons to Book Now, Snapper Fishing in 2023: What to Expect from Crystal River, FL, Where, When, and How: Catching Fish in Crystal River. Oops, there was an error sending your message. Well as the old saying goes for every mile you venture off our coast it only gets a foot deeper.. Experience Crystal River waters with a licensed & insured local -- Captain Brandon Branch. Contact us today with questions. Consider using circle hooks when youre fishing for grouper in Crystal River. Lost of options around the "millions" of islands and offshore rock piles.. Pete's Pier is a great place to launch from and Hampton Inn and Plantation On Crystal River are very close by. Great fishery, things heat up in the warmer monthes.. April is stormy and unpredictable. Some anglers like to use lures or bait, while others prefer to simply wade into the water and cast their line out. Learn all about it in our Oct fishing report. Caught trout, Spanish mackerel, and red fish. 12645 W Fort Island Trail Really good fighting fish. You wont be disappointed, 12645 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429. Grouper season is here!!!!!! - Crystal River Fishing Report - FishingBooker Grouper is a delicious fish. They are found in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean- and also right here in Crystal River, Florida. They can also be fished using live or dead bait such as cut fish or chicken parts. Be sure to check out our new website and give us any feedback you might have. Grouper fishing in Crystal River is typically done by bottom fishing with live bait, and the best time to fish for grouper is during the cooler months. These fish are extreme tackle testers so you better be ready for the battle with some high quality gear and some beefed up tackle. They tend to stay close to the bottom where there is plenty of cover. Sport Fishing Slip What to expect on your upcoming charter? Here at Crystal River Guide Service, Captain Casey is your local go-to inshore grouper fishing guide in Crystal River. found some trout only one keeper. Crystal River Fishing Reports - by High Octane Fishing data-event-category="Navigation header guest". The gag groupers mouth can also open up wider than most other fish because it has muscles that allow it to expand and contract. Located on US Hwy 19, Grannies kitchen has over 2,000 Google reviews and 4.6 stars. Florida Fishing Adventures. It is relatively easy to identify grouper fish. Grouper can be caught on a wide variety of baits. Reports - Reel Florida Fishing Charters These young anglers put on a fishing cli. These fish arent just sitting around waiting for us to catch them. What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Crystal River, Florida for the first time. The grouper season here opens on 1 June. The water is heating up and so is the fishing. But it is worth it to find the fish! We initially said hunt because thats exactly what fishing for grouper is like. Summer time mangrove snapper fishing is always a target to keep the rods bent free lining live shrimp in 10-20 feet you can expect mangroves from 2-5lbs along with grunts, hogfish and the occasional grouper. Keep it up. The best Grouper fishing found along Crystal River and Homosassa can be found along the shallow waters of our "Foul Area" also known as the Old Bombing Range. | Sitemap, Website Design & Marketing by Hooked Marketing, Max: 4 Inshore & Grouper / Max: 6 Scalloping. Some of our favorite baits include the Rapala X-Rap Magnum 15, 20, and 30 as well as the FMAG 18. These fish have an uncanny ability to bury the rod and get off in the rocks. Whats not to love about warm sunny days and ice-cold celebratory cocktails? As for the Grouper Fishing here in Crystal River, we have been waiting for the water temperatures to drop and the days to get shorter to push those big gags into shallow water. All of the great guides here at Reel Florida Fishing Charters hope that 2022 was a prosperous year for everyone and we wish all of you the very best going into 2023. There can be a few cold fronts that move through, but . You dont have to buy a fishing boat or buy fishing gear. captnickwarrington@gmail.com. When it comes to gag grouper fishing in Crystal River, you need to have the right tackle ready to go. All you have to do is pay for the charter. Best of all, its always open and ready to welcome anglers year-round. Happy New Year anglers!! Our miles of hard rocky bottom provides an ideal habitat for these fish. Crystal River, Florida Fishing Report October 2021 Nick Warrington Oct 26, 2021 Shallow water grouper fishing has been hot! The trout fishing has slowed down with warmer temperatures we have been fishing from 12-16 feet slow jigging mirrolure little johns in root beer and watermelon red on a 1/4 ounce jig head. Either use SPF 50 sunscreen or wear long shirt/pants. Thankfully the Nature Coast, which includes Crystal River and Homosassa, was spared, as Have you ever been to one of those large family gatherings where one of the grandparents or great parents is talking about a family member only to throw the words Bless His Heart into the story? Pinfishes are demersal fish, meaning they spend most of their time in the shallow waters near the bottom of the ocean. Shallow Water Grouper Fishing - Florida Fishing & Hunting You may have to swim against the tide, chase fleeing shellfish, etc. For species such as Grouper, Red Snapper, Snook and Redfish. While most anglers may think that targeting Grouper typically requires a long run offshore to deeper waters, many would be surprised to learn that the Nature Coast of Florida is the epicenter for targeting Gag Grouper in shallow water. Reel wise, a Daiwa BGMQ8000 can handle just about anything out there. The weather here in Crystal River this time of year is what we all dream of. Be sure to include the following on your next gag grouper fishing trip: Gag grouper fish are ambush predators, which means they hide in places where they can easily conceal themselves from their prey. Even with a 50, one of us got really burned. CRYSTAL RIVER FISHING REPORT Covering the inshore and offshore waters of Florida's Big Bend. While most go fish wrecks and reefs for grouper, the bottom-scape of the Crystal River shallows contain many natural features that draw this species in. Meanwhile, gag grouper fish are known for their large mouths that give them a wide gape when feeding. The captain can also offer bait if needed. If you ever wondered about one of the best grouper fishing opportunities in the state of Florida, wonder no more. The redfish and trout where great for dinner. Happy Holidays Anglers. open menu Crystal River Sport Fishing Sport Fishing Slip 12645 W Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 Map/Directions (813) 486-4642 captjaycemassaro@gmail.com Hours Always Open Reviews for goliath grouper in Crystal River prices can range anywhere from $400 to $600, but the average price for a full day for goliath grouper in Crystal River is $500. Another way to target Grouper is with trolling plug. Theres a reason they call is Red October. Schools of large upper slot and overslot redfish line the outer islands of the St. Martins Keys making for extremely fun sight fishing opportunities in crystal clear water. If youre not an experienced angler and want to catch fish in a short period of time, then the best option for you is going on a fishing charter. Casey is a god, basically the best fisherman ever. My go-to rod and reel is be either a Daiwa BG MQ or Saltist MQ 8000 paired with a Fitzgerald Fishing Stunner HD 74 Extra Heavy. They are often caught as bycatch in commercial fishing but are also fished for sport or food. With water temps in the 70's fishing in 10-30' of water has been very good and as it continues to cool off we only expect it to get better. It is this combination of structure, food, and temperate waters that bring gag grouper into the Crystal River inshore fishery. Crystal River is home to a unique shallow-water grouper fishery that is home to an extremely healthy population of gag grouper. Gag Grouper In Crystal River Although not as durable, frozen baits can get the job done as well. If you're looking to charter a Florida flats fishing guide, I hope to hear from you soon. 9340 W Fort Island Trail He or she will help you set up the gear, give you tips on how to catch fish. Grouper are famously known as Florida's most delicious fish species and of the seventeen different grouper species that are targeted throughout Florida the gag grouper is the most common variety found inhabiting the waters off the Nature Coast. Summer time mangrove snapper fishing is always a target to keep the rods bent free lining live shrimp in 10-20 feet you can expect mangroves from 2-5lbs along with grunts, hogfish and the occasional grouper. I'm talkin, Don't let the grey beard fool you!!! Anywhere from 15-30 you can expect to catch quality grouper on live and dead baits. This small town with just over 3,000 residents might not seem like the type of place where youll find world-class fishing. We found them! Crystal River Shallow Water Grouper and Redfish | Crystal River Fishing Trying to decide what time of year tobook a trip? Check out our June Fishing Report to learn the inside tips and tricks to catching grouper. All rights reserved. Email Us! February 21, 2023. Post Hurricane Ian Fishing Report. No v, Get my money's worth out of this one!!! They are intelligent and fast-moving, so catching them takes some skill. We pair these up with 7' Daiwa Harrier X rods to land these beasts. For example, the best time to go fishing for gag grouper is between June-December. Its a relaxing and exciting experience that allows you to connect with friends, family, and nature alike. If you are itching to hook a gag grouper or 10, one of the best ways to begin is by going on a fishing charter in Crystal River. The two most popular species of grouper and snapper in Crystal River are Gag Grouper and Mangrove Snapper. I would have never ever caught any of these massive reds with out his expertise. There are others, but these two have the densist population and are the most readily available to target. These young wranglers kept the rod, bent all day. A live pinfish on the bottom has given us the best outcomes so far this year. We talked to a local angler who knows everything there is to know about catching these creatures in the waters of Crystal River. Grouper are heavy fish and put up a good fight, so you want equipment that can withstand the stress without breaking. Crystal River, Florida, makes an excellent choice for charter fishing. Consider the following advice on how to catch and hook the catch of a lifetime, right here in Crystal River, FL. Are you looking to go gag grouper fishing this fall? Crankin' Up Grouper | Bass Pro Shops Come along with Captain Jayce on a fishing charter, and get ready to hook the catch of a lifetime. It has high levels of mercury, which can cause problems such as bloody stool, mood swings, memory loss, or muscle weakness. Gag Grouper and Redfish is the staple of Crystal River Fishing and there is no better time than now to catch multiples of these species in a day with the chance of breaking your personal best on the very next cast. While there are many opinions out there on what that might be, we like to use pinfish for grouper bait. Large lipped plugs, jigs, and swimbaits can all be used as long as the hooks are beefy enough to handle the pull of a big grouper. The snook bite continues to stay really strong on the hard incoming tides on the outside points using live bait and fast moving weedless jerkbaits. Why is this cooler weather so special, you may ask? Looks though our reports or subscribe to our reports! 2023 FishingBooker.com. Let's work on making this year the best year ever!!!. Read Crystal River fishing reports from March 2023. Its 2023 , and the new year is starting right with inshore and offshore action.Our water temps have been colder than average. We have recently been fishing in anywhere from 10-20 feet of water yielding great limits of quality gag grouper. The freshwater springs off the coast are home to several species of fish including snook, redfish, and of course, gag grouper. You can certainly eat it if you wish! Copyright Reel Florida Fishing Charters 2019-2021, Crystal River Little League Opening Day!!! They can be found in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean, as well as here in Crystal River, Florida. Should You Go Fishing in Crystal River in January. Crystal River, FL 34429. The main tried and true bait that gag grouper simply can't pass up is the trusty pinfish. Looking for the best time of year to fish in Crystal River? Offering up to datefishingtips,scallopingstrategies, productive areas and hot baits. We use 65lb braid and 100lb Fluorocarbon Leader to pull these fish from their homes. A fishing charter is a great way to enjoy a day out with friends or family while catching fish at the same time. Tip: arrive early as this restaurant gets very busy! Grouper And Snapper Fishing In Crystal River Reservations should be made in advance if possible. When we were out, we had a descent breeze, but it's still really warm. February 19, 2023. This allows them to swallow large prey items like clams and crabs whole. There is something to do for everyone in our area. #discovercrystalriver #pa, Catching a few fish on these rainy Florida days wi, Great day on the pond with my good friend James Ph. Crystal River Grouper Fishing Grouper fish are relatively easy to identify. We will be back., Irene Rubin Fort worth, Texas Great Guide- Great Fishing, Matt A. from Kill Devil Hills, NC I mean, capt. A shiny red-and-white fishing plug floated past our boat in the Gulf of Mexico, as we cast for trout on the Steinhatchee grass flats. Fish to 20 pounds are not unusual, and trust me, theres nothing like battling one of these bruisers on spinning tackle in shallow water. Crystal River is known for its gorgeous clear waters, but did you know its also a hot spot for grouper fishing? This can create some outstanding fishing once they get comfortable. Pinfish are one of the most commercially important species in many areas of the world. Be sure to lock down the drag and hold on tight as these fish will give it everything they got to get you down in the rocks. Shallow water or inshore fishing and grouper do not go hand in hand in most areas. One of the notable considerations of eating grouper is its mercury grade. I love fishing the Nature Coast. A beautiful scenery paired with a healthy and thriving habitat provides an amazing estuary for fish such as, When it comes to fishing, the gag grouper can be a challenge.